I always look at "length of stay." How long is too long? When is it cruel to keep a dog housed in a shelter environment? When do you make a decision to kill a dog because of their length of stay?

We've been very lucky that for over 4 years we haven't had to make that decision. But it looms over our heads and the dogs' heads as more dogs are brought in by Animal Control every day.

Our euthanasia rate has gone from 86% 8 years ago to 2% in 2009. But it's a lot of work and a lot of juggling.

Our long term residents stay because they are adoptable and have continued to stay adoptable. All they need is a home that will love them and welcome them in as a family member. A year ago I adopted Sunny. She was pitched out of a car at 10:00 at night and got her name the night she entered. She stayed in the shelter for 2 years and 3 months, always maintaining her "Sunny" disposition.

Our long term residents include:

TINK, otherwise known as Tinkerbelle. Even though he's a male Amercan Bull Dog, he doesn't care about his name and is happy, happy, happy. Videotaped at Staples pressing the Staples EASY button.

KORMAN, a hound mix, who just wants a boy to call his own.

KATIE, a Plott Hound/Pit Bull mix is as devoted as any dog can get.

MAMA MIA, a Border Collie/Lab mix came in with nine babies. Now her babies are all adopted and over a year old and she is still here. Happy, people loving, couch potato girl but will give you a run for your money if you want her to.

MORTON, a Chow/Lab mix who came in almost hairless and now with a full thick coat is quiet, clean, and friendly.

Long term residents are those who have been here over a year. They have continued to be adoptable despite their length of stay. Where are their homes?